Travelling through Melbourne Airport you always hear a fable or two. There are a lot of myths and misunderstandings surrounding airport travel. If you find yourself reluctant to travel because of what you may have heard, we are here to help.
We have taken some of the most common myths we have heard about travelling and set out to debunk them with a two-part blog series.
Melbourne Airport Myths Photo credit: Ryan McGuire / gratisography
Myth #1 – Airlines Will Only Fly Planes if They are Full or Partially Full
There is a belief that airlines will purposely cancel a flight if there are only a handful of passengers scheduled to fly, but it simply is not true.
Airlines have a very complex travel pattern and while the one flight might not be packed, the next flight at its next destination may be. This means the plane needs to get there and the only way to get there is to fly with a partially full plane.
Myth #2 – Traveller’s Cheques are a Good Option
Traveller’s Cheques are extremely dated. They were great in a time before there were so many ATM or credit card options.
Now, if you are travelling, the best option is just to use a bank ATM, as it will give you a good exchange rate. The alternative is to pre-load a ‘Travel Card’. It has the benefit of being able to be loaded with multiple currencies and can be monitored online. You can acquire a travel card either from your bank or a travel agent.
Myth #3 – There is No Such Thing as Quality Budget Travel
You don’t have to sacrifice quality or comfort just because you want to save some money. Many websites offer holiday packages that allow you to book hotels, airfare, and rental cars for one low cost. You save money, but don’t sacrifice quality.
Myth #4 – You can Get Sick from Recycled Plane Air
Yes, plane air is recycled, but you won’t get sick from it. Planes use high-tech filters that will remove up to 99% of all cold viruses and bacteria.
Myth #5 – Wi-Fi is Available Everywhere
Some airports are great about offering fast, reliable Wi-Fi. Others are not. Plan on not being able to access Wi-Fi and if the airport does provide free Wi-Fi, you will be pleasantly surprised.
Myth #6 – Checked Bags Go Straight Through When Travelling Internationally
When travelling internationally, you may think that your bags will just automatically go through to the next destination, but it’s not a given. While in most cases you can relax as your luggage will pass through to your final destination, in some territories you have to do a little extra lifting. If you are travelling into the U.S. or have a stop there, you must re-check your bags as you go through customs.
Myth #7 – Airlines Will Replace Anything You Lost in Your Luggage
Airlines do offer a monetary amount to replace lost luggage, but it might not be enough to replace everything in your bag. For damaged suitcases, airlines will be happy to send you a replacement if they are at fault.
Melbourne Airport Myths – being bumped from a flight
Myth #8 – There are Perks for Being Bumped from a Flight
Receiving perks for being bumped from a flight really depends on the situation. Sometimes you may be able to get travel vouchers or compensation for a hotel/food, but not always. It is becoming far less common as airlines tighten their belts, the perks aren’t that flash anymore.
Myth #9 – Pets Travel in Luxury
Travelling is extremely stressful on pets. The loud noises, uncertain areas, and hundreds of people that are travelling can stress a pet out. It’s not a decision taken lightly.
Myth #10 – There is No Compensation for Delayed Flights
Receiving compensation for a delayed flight is difficult, but not impossible. It really depends on where you are travelling. European countries are required by law to offer compensation for delayed flights, but flights in the U.S. are not.
These are just some of the many myths that are out there about travelling. Now, you can travel with confidence, as you know the truth and aren’t misinformed. Join us next week for our second part of the series.
